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limiting factor

American  

noun

  1. Physiology. the slowest, therefore rate-limiting, step in a process or reaction involving several steps.

  2. Biology. an environmental factor that tends to limit population size.


Example Sentences

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See Examples For:

The answer is that the real limiting factor for a racing driver as they age is mental rather than physical, as long as they are able to continue to meet the bodily demands.

From BBC ● Jul. 14, 2026

“The limiting factor for expansion is really rigorous validation, making sure things are completely safe,” Musk said on a call with investors in April.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 1, 2026

As AI’s computing needs get bigger, power density has become a limiting factor, Analog said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 19, 2026

However, the new findings clearly show that oxygen diffusion within flight muscle tracheoles is not the limiting factor.

From Science Daily ● Apr. 25, 2026

“The short life span has always been a prime limiting factor in education,” he told George and Julie.

From "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" by Robert C. O'Brien

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